Autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) is a disorder caused by mutations in the polycystic kidney and hepatic disease 1 (PKHD1) gene. The incidence of ARPKD is approximately 1:20,000 and the estimated carrier frequency in the general population is 1:70. ARPKD is characterized by enlarged echogenic kidneys, congenital hepatic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypoplasia (secondary to oligohydramnios [insufficient volume of amniotic fluid] in utero). Most individuals with ARPKD present during the neonatal period, and of those, nearly one third die of respiratory insufficiency. Early diagnosis, in addition to initiation of renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplantation) and respiratory support, increases the 10-year survival rate significantly. Presenting symptoms include bilateral palpable flank masses in infants and subsequent observation of typical findings on renal ultrasound, often within the clinical context of hypertension and prenatal oligohydramnios. In rarer cases, individuals may present during childhood or adulthood with hepatosplenomegaly. Of those who survive the neonatal period, one third progress to end-stage renal disease and up to half develop chronic renal insufficiency.

The PKHD1 gene maps to 6p12 and includes 67 exons. The PKHD1 gene encodes a protein called fibrocystin, which is localized to the primary cilia and basal body of renal tubular and biliary epithelial cells. Because ARPKD is an autosomal recessive disease, affected individuals must carry 2 deleterious mutations within the PKHD1 gene. Although disease penetrance is 100%, intrafamilial variation in disease severity has been observed.

The identification of a disease-causing mutation in an affected family member is necessary before predictive testing for other family members can be offered. If a familial mutation has not been previously identified, order ARPKD / Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD), Full Gene Analysis.

Analysis is performed for the familial mutation(s) provided only. This assay does not rule out the presence of other mutations within this gene or within other genes that may be associated with polycystic kidney disease.

Test results should be interpreted in the context of clinical findings, family history, and other laboratory data. Any error in the diagnosis or in the pedigree provided to us, including false-paternity, could lead to erroneous interpretation of results.

A previous bone marrow transplant from an allogenic donor will interfere with testing. Call Mayo Medical Laboratories for instructions for testing patients who have received a bone marrow transplant.